Senator Saland Announces Grants For Columbia County Libraries

Senator Steve Saland (R, I, C Poughkeepsie), Chairman of the New York State Senate Education Committee, today announced that he has secured more than $200,000 for technology and capital improvement grants for Columbia County libraries.

Among the libraries receiving technology grants through the additional funding secured by Senator Saland are:

In addition Senator Saland was able to secure a $93,000 grant for the Roeliff Jansen Community Library in order to assist with the construction of their new building in Hillsdale, which will use “green technologies” to significantly reduce energy consumption.

“In addition to our homes and schools, libraries provide a strong foundation for learning for our communities,” said Senator Saland. “I am very pleased to have secured this additional funding for technology and capital improvements for local libraries, “ he continued. “Students and adults who utilize these libraries will reap the benefits of these additional resources for years to come,” said Senator Saland.

“Our library has recently had two computers and a printer break down,” said Clai Lasher-Sommers, Director of the North Chatham Free Library. “With the current economic conditions, we have seen a large increase in computer usage in recent months. This grant will allow us to replace the outdated and ineffective equipment. Senator Saland has once again come through for the people of this community, and just in the nick of time.”